The Corinthians star has been linked with a move to White Hart Lane for several months and a £17m deal is now close to being finalised.

Once confirmed, he will become Andre Villas-Boas' first summer recruit as he looks to reshape his squad.

Inter Milan and Real Madrid were also credited with an interest in the player, who scored twice during Brazil's recent Confederations Cup success and was also on the mark in the 2-2 draw with England last month.

Paulinho confirmed earlier this week that he would be heading to Spurs and stated that he had no regrets about his decision.

He told ESPN Brasil: "They (Tottenham) made an offer to my agent and to Corinthians, I sat down, analysed the proposal and chose Tottenham. We think it was the best path, the best option.

"I am moving from one big club to Tottenham, another club in a big league. I am sure I will perform my job to the best of my ability. I don't regret and I won't regret [this decision]."

His compatriot, and current Spurs midfielder Sandro, is confident that Paulinho has the ability to make an impact in the Premier League.

Sandro told Globo Esporte: "I think he has what it takes to do well here.

"This is a club with a great structure. It has been fighting for the top positions in the last few years and playing in European competitions.

"Paulinho will certainly help us become even stronger.

"I can only say 'welcome to Tottenham, Paulinho'. I am very happy, I will try to do the same thing Gomes did when I arrived. He was very important when I came and helped me adapt. If Paulinho needs me, I will help. I welcome him."

Paulinho has been likened to Frank Lampard, and he acknowledged he is happy to take on board any comparisons with the veteran Chelsea and England midfielder.

"This comparison is a responsibility that I will take," said Paulinho. "I will not run away from it.

"Lampard is a great player, not only for Chelsea but in world football.

"I intend to follow in his footsteps as he is a very professional guy. David Luiz always speaks of him on international duty.

"I've always looked at what Lampard does and to me he is a huge phenomenon. The way he hits the ball, what positions he takes up, he really is incredible."

ood grief. Someone guessed that the form English player at the moment might be in his national side with some other players? And that's espionage? Now if they discovered that Emile Heskey was going to be in the starting line up.... at right back.... THAT would be espionage. Give it a rest Roy.